I remember my excitement after last year’s Mala in Cuba album was first announced. It seemed like a good thing to do and the upfront 12-inch didn’t disappoint. Once the record was finally out, it took only one listen and my enthusiasm was gone. It sounded good on paper, but the record was a huge let down.

Anyway, there’s a new 10-inch on the way with a VIP mix of one of the tracks and it sounds like Mala is trying to make up with me. Supported by Simbad, it sounds less like an artificial amalgamation, but has a more natural feel to it. Available for pre-order at Surus.

If you watched the documentaries on the making of the Mala in Cuba album, you probably can’t wait to pick it up from your store when it drops on September 10th. Fortunately, you don’t have to wait that long to listen to it, as Mala decided to put the entire album up for streaming (listen above!) Quickness is asked if you’re interested in the vinyl box-set, as Gilles Peterson reports it’s almost sold out. I’m not sure if there will be a another vinyl edition, but it doesn’t look like it. Of course there’s no need to worry if you’re going for CD or digital purchase!

Compared to the previous two or three years, 2012 didn’t have that many albums I fell in love with – and I’m not saying there haven’t been any good albums this year. But I have a feeling the forthcoming Mala in Cuba album will end up in a lot of top fives by the end of the year.